NHTSA Upgrades Investigation Into 60,000 BMW Mini Cars

391083 05: The Mini logos marks the hood of a new Mini Cooper car June, 25 2001 in London, England as the new model is unveiled to the auto industry press. The Mini, a 42-year-old brand, is now manufactured by BMW Motors. (Photo by Sion Touhig/Getty Images)Federal regulators are stepping up their investigation into potential steering problems on almost 60,000 BMW Mini cars. (Getty Image)

The Feds are stepping up their investigation into potential steering problems on almost 60,000 BMW Mini cars. The model year 2004-2005 Mini Cooper’s may have a steering defect linked to three vehicle fires.

The NHTSA has reviewed over 500 complaints.

Five minor crashes have been reported.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been looking into it since September.

In July of 2010 CBSNews.com reported another investigation into steering issues with the German automaker’s cars.